African leaders have underscored the urgency to equip the new generations in agriculture and healthcare to climate resilience states in Africa’s vast human capital, stating the need to empower them to drive structural transformation and global engagement on equal terms.
This was disclosed in a virtual global forum hosted by the former Nigerian Permanent Representative to the United Nations and the 74th President of the UN General Assembly, H.E. Prof. Tijjani Muhammad-Bande, with the theme, “Africa Rising” on Africa Day 2025, with Innovation, Heritage, and Hope” in Washington, D.C. as he addresses issues like democracy, migration, population growth, and regional peace and security.
In a statement signed by Joi John Co – Founder, Belcrest Institute, Migration is not alien to Africa, the real task is to build systems that make staying as viable and rewarding as going. Africa is not a passive participant in global affairs, we are contributors to world civilizations past, present, and future.
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In his remarks, Prof. Muhammad-Bande emphasized the importance of Agenda 2063, the African Union’s strategic framework for inclusive growth and sustainable development. There should be
a renewed continental focus on self-reliance, democratic governance adapted to African contexts, and long-term investments in education, science, and innovation.
He also highlighted the central role of Africa’s youth,”the urgency of equipping new generations to lead in sectors ranging from agriculture and health to climate resilience and diplomacy. Africa’s vast human capital, he noted, must be empowered to drive structural transformation and global engagement on equal terms”.
On conflict and governance, Prof. Muhammed-Bande spoke on the ongoing crisis in Sudan, advocating for stronger, more coordinated interventions by the African Union and regional partners. He also reaffirmed the need for Africa to shape global responses to climate change and public health in line with its own realities and priorities.